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Whopper

The Whopper is Burger King’s signature hamburger, first introduced in 1957 and later adopted by Hungry Jack’s in Australia.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Whopper is Burger King’s signature hamburger, first introduced in 1957 and later adopted by Hungry Jack’s in Australia. It is known for its flame-grilled beef patty and customizable toppings, and it became central to Burger King’s branding as the “Home of the Whopper.”

History

The Whopper was launched in 1957 as a larger hamburger offering for Burger King. It became a defining product for the chain and helped shape its identity in fast-food advertising.

Ingredients and preparation

The standard Whopper is built around a flame-grilled beef patty served on a sesame seed bun with condiments and vegetables. Regional versions and customization options can change the exact composition.

Branding and cultural significance

Burger King has used the Whopper as the centerpiece of its marketing, including the slogan “Home of the Whopper.” The product became a reference point in fast-food competition, especially against rival large burgers.

Variations

Over time, the Whopper has been reformulated in some markets and has appeared in different regional and promotional versions. Hungry Jack’s in Australia also sells the Whopper under its franchise arrangement.

Key facts

  • The Whopper is Burger King’s signature hamburger and one of the chain’s best-known menu items.
  • It was introduced in 1957 by Burger King co-founder James McLamore.
  • The original price was 37 US cents.
  • A standard Whopper includes a flame-grilled 4 oz (110 g) beef patty and common toppings such as lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, mayonnaise, and onion.
  • The sandwich has been widely associated with Burger King’s long-running advertising slogan, “the Home of the Whopper.”
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Canadian context

Burger King operates in Canada, so the Whopper is a familiar menu item for Canadian fast-food customers and a recognizable part of North American burger culture.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Whopper?
The Whopper is Burger King’s signature hamburger and a long-running staple of the chain’s menu.
When was the Whopper introduced?
It was introduced in 1957.
Who created the Whopper?
Burger King co-founder James McLamore is credited with creating it.
What comes on a standard Whopper?
A standard Whopper includes a flame-grilled beef patty, sesame seed bun, mayonnaise, lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, and sliced onion.
How much did the Whopper originally cost?
It originally sold for 37 US cents.
Is the Whopper sold outside the United States?
Yes. It is sold internationally by Burger King and by Hungry Jack’s in Australia.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whopper
    Supports: Introduction date, creator, original price, ingredients, and Burger King branding
  2. Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/topic/Whopper
    Supports: Whopper as Burger King’s signature product and introduction in 1957
  3. Wikipedia (Spanish) — https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whopper
    Supports: Ingredients, international sales, and Hungry Jack’s connection